A former Downing Street adviser-turned-Surrey CC director has been cleared by a internal investigation, after a consultancy contract was awarded to her former husband.
Patricia Greer arrived at Surrey in July - part of a much-heralded reorganisation at the council. Her former husband won a short-term consultancy contract at the authority just two months later.
But council checks have cleared Dr Greer of any 'dishonesty or improper conduct' in the awarding of the contract.
A Surrey CC spokesman said: 'Following an allegation made by a former member of staff, checks carried out in line with the council's Speaking Out policy have confirmed there is absolutely no suggestion of dishonesty or improper conduct of any sort.
'As far as the council is concerned, the matter is closed.'
Dr Greer declared an interest the moment her ex-husband's CV arrived at the council, and she took no part in the process.
It is believed the allegation made against her was one of several to come from a former council employee.
Dr Greer said: 'The allegations were made by a departing member of staff. The council set up a review, as this is standard practice following any such allegations.
'I have always been confident that the review would vindicate me fully. This proved correct and I acted properly and in the best interests of Surrey.'
Dr Greer joined Surrey as the new strategic director, policy and performance after four years as deputy director of the prime minister's strategy unit. She was one of four new top appointees after the council switched from six to four directorates.
And her appointment was part of sweeping changes at the council which have saved it more than £28m and seen around 550 positions removed, including some compulsory redundancies
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